TIPS FOR HITCHHIKERS

There is a frenzy of hitchhiking going on in some parts of the world. An increasing number of young people pick up their backpacks half-filled with provisions enough only for a couple of days and set out on a journey with no prior plan on their transport. To a lot of young people, this sounds ‘cool’ because to them, it is the only chance they can break out of their shell and satisfy their desire for adventure and risk-taking. However, hitchhiking – just like any other activity – needs to be done with certain precautions in mind. Below are a few of them.

Standing alone on the side of the road for hours can make you feel lonely. A companion will help you ameliorate this. Your companion can also shield you against a driver’s attempt at something nefarious.

Having one companion is enough, and you need to try to limit the number of your companions to maximum two. A group of four hitchhikers has too many members to find easy rides, and it also seems menacing to a lot of drivers, especially if all the members are male.

It is advisable to wear bright colours, as they suggest your approachableness. Also, ensure to wear clean clothing, as your cleanliness will help drivers make the split-second decision of whether or not to pull over. As you might be sweating by standing on the side of the road in the sun, it is much better to wear clothing that does not reveal your sweat patches.